The Dana Cultural Center provides a unique destination to understand life in California rancho era and to discover the stories of those who left their footprints on the land throughout time. The Dana Adobe and the 130 acres of preserved land, engages the visitor in the sites ecological and cultural history and reveals how actions over time shape our future.

Preserve History

Inspire Stewardship

Conserve Our Ecosystems

Dana Cultural Center is dedicated to the history, heritage, culture and ecology of the early 19th century Rancho Era in Nipomo California.

Latest Projects

Rancho Nipomo Dana Adobe is one of the few historic sites in California that still has its original tallow works. Hides and tallow were key to the economy of ranchos between 1838 and 1849. The tallow works is an important part of the Dana story.

School is back in session and 3rd and 4th grade classes are coming to experience life on Rancho Nipomo at the Dana Adobe. These field trips enhance student’s history lessons. Our educational and cultural programs enable local elementary school children to experience the Rancho and learn firsthand the culture, history,